THE LIFTER OF MY HEAD

Title: THE LIFTER OF MY HEAD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Psalm 3:3 (NKJV) – "But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head."

Supporting Texts:
Psalm 27:6
Psalm 91:15
Isaiah 41:10
1 Peter 5:6-7

INTRODUCTION:
In times of trouble, discouragement, or shame, it is easy to feel defeated and burdened. However, God, as the lifter of our heads, offers us hope, restoration, and renewed strength. This sermon will explore how God lifts us from our circumstances, enabling us to stand tall with confidence and faith.

1. THE MEANING OF BEING LIFTED
Understanding what it means for God to lift our heads is vital for our spiritual walk.

a) From Shame to Honour: God lifts us from a place of shame and reproach, restoring our dignity and worth (Psalm 27:6).

b) From Despair to Hope: When we are downcast, God restores our hope, reminding us of His promises (Lamentations 3:21-23).

c) From Fear to Courage: God strengthens us in times of fear, helping us to face challenges with boldness (Isaiah 41:10).

d) From Isolation to Community: God lifts our heads to remind us that we are not alone; He surrounds us with His presence and His people (Hebrews 10:24-25).

e) Biblical Example:
The story of Peter walking on water illustrates how Jesus lifted Peter from fear and failure, restoring his faith (Matthew 14:29-31).

2. GOD AS OUR SHIELD
Understanding God as our shield is crucial in recognising His protective nature.

a) Divine Protection: God shields us from harm, both physical and spiritual, guarding our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).

b) Security in His Presence: In God's presence, we find safety and comfort; He is our refuge in times of trouble (Psalm 91:15).

c) Deliverance from Enemies: God delivers us from adversaries and challenges, ensuring our victory (Psalm 18:2).

d) Faith in His Protection: We must place our trust in God’s ability to protect us, even when the storms of life arise (Psalm 56:3-4).

e) Biblical Example:
David’s life exemplifies how God acted as a shield during his encounters with Goliath and King Saul, lifting his head amid threats (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMILITY
To experience God's lifting, we must embrace humility before Him.

a) Recognising Our Dependence: Acknowledging that we need God’s help is the first step in receiving His lifting hand (1 Peter 5:6-7).

b) Surrendering Our Burdens: God invites us to cast our cares upon Him, promising to sustain us (Psalm 55:22).

c) Posturing Our Hearts: A humble heart positions us to receive God’s grace and assistance (James 4:6).

d) Avoiding Pride: Pride hinders our ability to be lifted; we must remain teachable and open to God’s leading (Proverbs 16:18).

e) Biblical Example:
The story of the tax collector and the Pharisee highlights the power of humility in receiving God’s mercy and lifting (Luke 18:9-14).

4. RECEIVING GOD’S LIFTING HAND
We must actively seek and receive God's lifting hand in our lives.

a) Prayer for Help: We are encouraged to bring our burdens to God in prayer, trusting Him to lift us (Philippians 4:6-7).

b) Worship as a Response: Worship shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness, helping us to feel His lifting presence (Psalm 34:3).

c) Meditating on His Word: God’s promises in Scripture remind us of His faithfulness and ability to lift our heads (Romans 15:4).

d) Sharing Our Struggles: Seeking support from fellow believers helps us to feel uplifted through community (Galatians 6:2).

e) Biblical Example:
Hannah’s prayer in her time of distress led to her being lifted from sorrow to joy as God answered her (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

5. LIVING IN THE LIFTING
Once lifted, we are called to live a life that reflects God’s glory and strength.

a) Walking in Confidence: With our heads lifted, we can walk confidently in the purpose God has for us (2 Timothy 1:7).

b) Spreading Hope to Others: We are called to share the hope and lifting we have received with those around us (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

c) Testifying of His Goodness: Our testimonies serve as a source of encouragement for others, pointing them to God (Psalm 40:1-3).

d) Maintaining a Grateful Heart: Acknowledging God’s work in our lives keeps our hearts aligned with Him and fosters continued lifting (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

e) Biblical Example:
The man born blind, after receiving sight from Jesus, became a powerful witness to God’s glory (John 9:24-25).

CONCLUSION:
God is indeed the lifter of our heads, transforming our shame into glory and our despair into hope. As we recognise His power and presence, embrace humility, and receive His lifting hand, we will experience renewed strength and purpose. Let us walk in confidence, knowing that God is with us, lifting us above our circumstances.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, lift my head and restore my hope.

2. Help me to recognise Your protection as my shield in every situation.

3. I surrender my burdens to You, trusting in Your lifting hand.

4. Teach me humility and dependence on You in all aspects of my life.

5. May my prayers be a source of strength and lifting during difficult times.

6. Lord, let my worship draw me closer to You and uplift my spirit.

7. Help me to share my struggles with others who can support me.

8. I declare that my confidence in You will be renewed.

9. May I be a testimony of Your goodness and lifting power to others.

10. Lord, cultivate a grateful heart in me that acknowledges Your work.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that every heavy burden is being lifted off your shoulders!

2. God is restoring your dignity and honour in this season!

3. You will walk in confidence as God lifts your head above your challenges!

4. Every area of shame in your life is being transformed into glory!

5. You will experience God's protection as your shield in every situation!

6. Your prayers are activating divine interventions that will lift you higher!

7. You are surrounded by a community that supports and uplifts you!

8. Your testimony will inspire others to trust in the lifter of heads!

9. You will experience joy and peace as you surrender your burdens to Him!

10. God is doing a new thing in your life, lifting you to new heights!